Diageo's Ketel One deal delayed

Diageo's purchase of Dutch vodka label Ketel One has been delayed by a secondary information request from US regulators.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has made a request for additional information on the deal under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act (HSR).

As a result Diageo's plans to form a 50/50 sale and distribution company for Ketel One vodka products with the Nolet family will now be delayed.

A company statement said: "The request, commonly referred to as a 'second request', will extend the waiting period imposed by HSR until, at the latest, 30 days after Diageo has substantially complied with the second request.

"Diageo will comply with the second request as expeditiously as possible and will continue to cooperate fully with the FTC's review."

The drinks giant ruled itself out of the running for Sweden's Absolut Vodka earlier this year and focused its efforts on Ketel One as it hones in on premium offerings.